From Tub to Shower in Eight Easy Steps
Does your old tub seem like a throwback from a “Leave it to Beaver” episode? Is it a puke pea green, avocado gold, or autumn brown? Is it full of dents, cracks, chips, and dings? Then it’s time for you to get rid of your old tub and install a walk in shower. Use these eight simple steps for turning an old tub into a shower and get the most savings out of your next bathroom remodeling project.
1. Measure the New Shower- Contact an acrylic shower installer and provide them with accurate measurements according to their specifications. Don’t start the next steps until the custom molded shower pan has arrived.
2. Remove the Plumbing- You’ll need to disconnect the drain pipe by unscrewing the center Phillips head screw. Take off the cover and use a drain key socket on a ½” socket wrench. It’s going to be pretty stubborn at first, but once you give it a few taps, it will break free and unscrew. You may also need to remove the overflow drain as well using the same technique for the drain. Unscrew the cover to the overflow drain using a Phillips head screwdriver, then follow up with the drain key socket set.
3. Cut the Old Caulking- Cut the old caulking out using a razor knife or a specialized caulk extraction tool. The old caulking doesn’t need to be totally removed, just cut free from any surrounding surfaces to prevent damaging the materials as the tub is removed.
4. Pry the Tub Loose- Using a set of small 2×4 blocks and a pry bar, loosen the old tub from the surrounding flooring and walls. Be careful not to wedge the tub between the walls by using a partner to help hold one end of the old tub.
5. Prep the Area- Remove the leftover caulk using a small spackling knife. Sweep up the debris and clean up any water that may have spilled onto the concrete from the drain as well.
6. Installing the Drain Pan- Use a quality adhesive or mastic to secure the drain pan to the floor and walls. Place the center of the drain pipe directly into the drain socket in the shower pan. Install the new drain cover using a drain key socket and Phillips head screwdriver.
7. Installing the Wall Surrounds- Remove any necessary plumbing and install the three panels using a quality wall adhesive or mastic. Seal each of the corners using clear silicone caulk. Replace the old plumbing or add new fixtures as necessary.
8. Add the Door- A glass door that fits the opening is the final task on your list. Make a level mark with a pencil on the outer edge of the tub. Don’t attach the door to the line, but in the center of the lip of the shower pan. Use the level pencil line to level the new door, screw it in place and erase the pencil mark. Seal the new door with silicone caulk, attach the door hardware and you’re ready to use the shower in a few hours.
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